Wisconsin Trades • Side-by-Side Comparison
Plumbing vs Electrician vs HVAC in Wisconsin
Salary, benefits, paid time off, job satisfaction, and outlook — without the fluff.
Quick truth: the “best” trade depends less on hype and more on work conditions, schedules, and whether you want service calls, job sites, or both.
This comparison reflects typical Wisconsin pathways. Pay, benefits, and timelines vary by region, employer, and union status.
Best for: students, career-changers, parents advising teens, and anyone comparing skilled trades in Wisconsin.
Electrician
- Strong demand across residential, commercial, and industrial work
- Growth tied to construction and power upgrades
- Often less “mess,” more troubleshooting
Plumbing
- Extremely high “always-needed” factor
- Excellent self-employment potential
- Emergency and off-hour calls are common
HVAC
- Wisconsin weather keeps demand steady
- Electrical + mechanical troubleshooting
- Peak-season overtime is normal
Salary Comparison (Wisconsin)
| Trade | Low (10%) | Median | High (90%) | Takeaway |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $46,140 | $75,090 | $99,160 | Strong median with wide upside. |
| Plumber | $46,750 | $68,410 | $92,250 | Stability + ownership potential. |
| HVAC | $45,760 | $61,220 | $95,310 | Lower median, strong high-end. |
Benefits Comparison
| Category | Electrician | Plumbing | HVAC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health insurance | Union often employer-funded | Union common; varies non-union | Varies widely by shop |
| Retirement | Pension / annuity common | Pension / annuity common | Depends on employer |
| Portability | High (union) | High (union) | High (union) |
When do apprenticeships actually open in Wisconsin?
Application timing varies by sponsor and trade. This page shows when openings usually post and how long the process takes.